At the same time, the relationship with the family changes as the teenager becomes more independent. Teenagers often spend more time with their friends than their family and also will listen more to their friends. The same trends from middle childhood also continue, as friends understand themselves as part of a peer group, and as one-on-one relationships with close friends become more important. The major social change that occurs in adolescence is that people begin to date and explore sexual relationships. In early adolescence, teens often begin dating and exploring love relationships. Berk (399) notes that "sticking with group activities, such as parties or dances, before becoming involved with a steady boyfriend of girlfriend is best for young teenagers." I have observed this and seen that early relationships are based on hanging out with and having fun with others, rather than having one-on-one intimate relationships. This then develops and changes...
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